In the Survey of Disability and Carers (SDAC) a disability is defined as any limitation, restriction or impairment which has lasted, or is likely to last, for at least six months, and restricts everyday activities. For further information about definitions and survey methodology please refer to the Explanatory Notes published in ABS (2010a) Disability, Ageing and Carers, Australia: Summary of Findings, 2009 (cat. no. 4430.0).

The 2009 SDAC found that 24% of people aged 18 years and over who had a disability had attended at least one sporting event during the 12 months prior to interview. A higher proportion of men who had a disability (29%) had attended a sporting event, compared with women who had a disability (21%).

(a) Relates to persons aged 18 years and over, living in households only, who attended a sporting event as a spectator away from home during the 12 months prior to interview.

(b) Core activities comprise communication, mobility and self care.

(c) Total may be less than the sum of the components as persons may have both a core activity limitation and a schooling or employment restriction.

(d) Includes those who do not have a specific limitation or restriction.

Source: ABS data available on request, Survey of Disability, Ageing and Carers.

Between 2003 and 2009, there was a significant decrease in attendance at sporting events by men with a disability (from 32% to 29%). The proportion of women with a disability who attended sporting events also decreased (from 23% in 2003 to 21% in 2009).

Noticeable decreases in attendance were seen by people who had a severe core activity limitation (from 25% in 2003 to 19% in 2009) and by people who had a schooling or employment restriction (from 31% in 2003 to 27% in 2009). Of men with a disability, attendance by those who had a severe core activity limitation decreased from 29% in 2003 to 21% in 2009.

The only increase in attendance between 2003 and 2009 was by women with a profound core activity (from 5% in 2003 to 9% in 2009).

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